What the plan must say (HCS 281 B4)
For both entry-level and yearly training, list:
- Who will teach it
- A written description of the goals (objectives)
- The title and length of each training
Entry-level training: 5 hours before seeing a client
Date check: These rules are in effect only until January 1, 2027 (HSC §1796.44(e)). A new law is expected to change them. Check with CDSS.HSC §1796.44(b) says an aide must finish at least 5 hours before being with a client:
1. 2 hours of orientation. Their role as a home care aide and the terms of their job.
2. 3 hours of safety training. Basic safety steps, emergency steps, and infection control.
Yearly training: 5 hours each year
HSC §1796.44(c) says aides need at least 5 hours each year. It must relate to core skills and fit the clients they serve. It must include:
1. Clients' rights and safety
2. How to meet and respond to a client's daily living needs
3. How to report, prevent, and spot abuse and neglect
4. How to help with personal hygiene and other home care services
5. How to drive a client safely (if you give rides)
HCS 281 says aides finish the first yearly training within the first year, then each year after.
Online is OK. Both trainings may be done online (§1796.44(d)).Add a sample training log
HCS 281 B4 says to send a sample training verification log with your plan. You can use the CDSS form HCS 500. Or make your own. Your own log must show at least:
- Employee name
- Hire date
- Position title
- Registration date
- Training title and a short list of topics
- Date the training was done (month/day/year)
- Training hours
- Trainer's first and last name (if in person)
- Group that gave the training
- Where it took place (give the website if online)
A change is coming in 2027
HSC §1796.44(e) says the current rules "remain in effect only until January 1, 2027." A new law is expected to change aide training. We have not been able to read its final text. Check with CDSS before you finalize your plan.
Home care is nonmedical
Aides may help with medicine a client takes on their own. They may not help if the medicine needs a licensed health professional (HSC §1796.12(n)). Teach this line in your training.
